Late Laurent Ciman winner gives LAFC successful stadium opening

Laurent Ciman struck a last-gasp winner to snatch Los Angeles FC a 1-0 victory against the Seattle Sounders in their first ever game at Banc of California Stadium.

The game lacked scoring chances in the first half, but not intensity as the Sounders looked to have the better of the chances, with LAFC controlling possession.

In the second half, LAFC dominated the opening exchanges and came close to grabbing the breakthrough. First, Marco Ureña forced a good save from Stefan Frei before Benny Feilhaber came inches wide of scoring from long range.

Ureña continued to be a threat and a header from the Costa Rican international flashed across goal.

The Sounders’ best opportunity came in the 89th minute when a chance from Gustav Svensson was blocked right before the goal-line.

Right when the game looked headed to goalless draw, Laurent Ciman sent a free-kick through the hands of Stefan Frei to give LAFC a victorious homecoming.